Abstract

Overview

Telecommunication networks use radio-frequency electromagnetic fields to enable wireless communication. These networks have evolved over time, and have been launched in successive generations. The fifth generation of telecommunication networks will operate at frequencies that were not commonly used in previous generations, changing the exposure of wildlife to these waves. This report reviews the literature on the exposure of vertebrates, invertebrates and plants to radio-frequency electromagnetic fields in anticipation of this change.

Findings

• Dielectric heating can occur at all considered frequencies (0.4-300 GHz) and for all studied organisms.
• Several studies into the effects of radio- frequency electromagnetic field exposure on invertebrates and plants in the frequency bands considered demonstrate experimental shortcomings.
• The literature on invertebrate and plant exposure to radio-frequency electromagnetic fields above 6 GHz is very limited.

Conclusion

More research is needed in this field to thoroughly understand the impacts and ensure environmental safety with the new generation of telecommunication networks.